Jeffrey Dana Merrill

Jeff Merrill was born on March 10, 1977, at Fresno Community Hospital in Fresno, California,

to Mary Kay and Steve. He lived 48 full and vibrant years. In his early childhood, Jeff attended

elementary school in British Columbia and later in Clovis, California. He went on to Clark

Intermediate and graduated from Clovis High School in 1995, where he played golf and

competed one year in the state championships. He completed his education at San Diego State

University.

Jeff built a successful 20-year career in the mortgage industry before stepping away from

corporate life to join the staff at Clovis Hills Community Church in finance. It was there that his

true calling came into even sharper focus.

Jeff is survived by his incredible wife, Kristin, and his beautiful daughter, Maci.

Growing up, Jeff was the rebel of three brothers - sporty, passionate, always on the move, always

chasing a new idea. Whether it was BMX bikes, fishing, tennis, or golf, Jeff was all-in. There

was no halfway for him. But two things defined his life more than anything else: being a dad and

loving Jesus.

Maci was an unmistakable blessing from the start. Jeff was not only Maci's father; he was her

best friend. Their spark, their banter, their laughter - the depth of their bond was unmistakable.

Jeff infused the love of Christ into Maci's life and had the joy of baptizing her at Clovis Hills

Community Church. Though the world lost her dad far too soon, Jeff's faith assures that this

goodbye is not forever.

Jeff loved Jesus with a steady, unwavering devotion. God provided a final lunch his youngest

brother eight days before Jeff's passing. Their last words to each other were simple and

profound: "I love you, brother." Jeff had a deep love for family.

When Jeff gathered with others, conversations rarely centered on sports or business. Instead, he

was laser-focused on supporting missions in El Salvador and investing in children's ministry. He

was passionate about drawing young people into the knowledge and love of Christ.

Jeff became known for baptizing hundreds of adults and youth. And he always asked a simple

but powerful question: "And what is your good confession?" The confident reply would echo

back, "Jesus is Lord."

Jeff's legacy lives not only in the family who loved him deeply, but in the countless lives he

touched and the faith he boldly proclaimed.